Van Road trails are one of the largest sets of dirt jump trails in the UK. There are a selection of trails, from pro–lines that wouldn’t look out of place at a King of Dirt comp, to beginner’s which are very similar to a mini–BMX tracks. This is an excellent place to build up your skills, from pumping rollers to learning big tricks, there is basically something for everyone there…

From Dirt Issue 136 – June 2013

Words by Ben Winder. Photos by Ben Winder and Steve Jones.

Van Road trails are one of the largest sets of dirt jump trails in the UK. There are a selection of trails, from pro–lines that wouldn’t look out of place at a King of Dirt comp, to beginner’s which are very similar to a mini–BMX tracks. This is an excellent place to build up your skills, from pumping rollers to learning big tricks, there is basically something for everyone there.

Van Road is located just outside Caerphilly, South Wales, and there is a large community from the town who are always happy to help out digging. There is a friendly vibe, and everyone is there for a good time, which is a welcoming atmosphere for parents to bring their children, and start learning the basics of mountain biking.

Building in Van Road first kicked off in about 1997, with a couple of little jumps, and as the years went by the jumps developed in to trails and more lines were added. After a few run in’s with the local Forestry Commission (FC), which ended in the tracks getting flattened. This led to an outcry from the locals wanting their trails back, this sparked a long lasting battle with the FC, but finally in early 2012 the locals were given the funding to start building.

The driving forces behind the trails are Steve Aicheler, Huw Lloyd–Lewis and Jason Carpenter. Once the funding was awarded, the trail building company ‘BMX Track Construction’ (run by Jason) was brought in to build the trails. The local community also help out, by digging, maintaining and keeping the place neat and tidy. They are also planning to hold some events at this year including pumptrack races, dirt jump competitions and a dual slalom race. A great place, with a great scene.